[Durus]

It's neither. What causes most of the problems in America? It's the same thing that caused the initial problems with the M16 that gave it a bad rep. Yes, ignorant government bureaucrats making stupid decision. First they decided to change the ammo to a powder type which the M16 team strongly objected too. Second they shipped the rifles without cleaning kits. It was a bit of a one-two punch and the M16 has never lived down the reputation caused by moronic hacks.

If you attach a reciprocating mass to a barrel you create inaccuracy. If that reciprocating mass has lots of moving parts you introduce complexity. With an AR you have a tube. There isn't much to go wrong with a tube. Chrome&Coat the bolt and that rifle will be as reliable as any named as competition.

[MrEdd]

You just conceded my point.

It needs.constant.cleaning, even with the proper amunition. Cleaning you may not have time for or.which may be unadvantagouse in the typhoon or sandstorm you are in.

I prefer a weapon that is reliable when I am in a khamsin or slogging through a Phillipino swamp in monsoon season. Both of which are places I wound up.

Gas operated aint it.